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How to Think Like a Roman Emperor summary
Donald Robertson
The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius
20 mins
Brief summary
"How to Think Like a Roman Emperor" by Donald Robertson is an insightful guide that teaches us how to apply the wisdom of ancient Stoicism in our daily lives. It provides practical tips for managing negative emotions and enhancing our mental well-being.
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How to Think Like a Roman Emperor
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Stoics believe in living a virtuous and wise life in agreement with nature.
Like all philosophies, Stoicism has foundational tenets. If you had any prior idea of what the word “stoic” means, you may have believed that it was synonymous with having a “stiff upper lip.” But that’s only part of what it means to be a Stoic. If you were to boil down the tenets of this ancient philosophy into a single idea, it would be this: To live a satisfying life is to live in harmony with the natural order of things.
For the Stoics, living in agreement with nature was the logical and reasonable thing to do. After all, you come from nature and eventually return to it. So while you’re alive, the wise and virtuous thing to do is to act in accordance with nature.
To a Stoic, an important part of living in agreement with nature is accepting fate as it is, not as it should be or might be. Men like Marcus Aurelius believed that the life they were dealt was just as good as any other life for which they could wish. To think otherwise would be unreasonable and illogical.
This doesn't mean Stoics go through life without having preferences. A Stoic, like anyone else, would prefer to be healthy rather than sick, and wealthy and resourceful rather than poor. However, the Stoics believed that every person, be they rich and powerful or sick and poor, has the same nature flowing through them and should live wisely and virtuously no matter their current circumstances. In fact, it’s often the wealthy and successful people who fail to live virtuously. One fact that didn’t escape Marcus Aurelius and other early Stoics is that wealthy and powerful people often squandered their lives chasing pleasures that ultimately made them miserable. Hardly virtuous living.
But what exactly is virtue according to Stoicism? And why is it important to live virtuously in the first place?
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What is How to Think Like a Roman Emperor about?
How to Think Like a Roman Emperor (2019) describes the guiding principles of Stoicism through the life and writings of Marcus Aurelius. As one of the most esteemed Roman emperors, his most admired characteristics as a leader were informed by the philosophy of the Stoics. We also find out how these practices can be followed by anyone today.
How to Think Like a Roman Emperor Review
How to Think Like a Roman Emperor (2019) is a captivating exploration of Stoicism through the lens of the life and philosophy of Marcus Aurelius. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Full of practical lessons, it provides actionable advice on how to apply Stoic principles to modern life.
- By drawing on both ancient wisdom and modern psychology, the book offers a unique perspective on self-improvement and resilience.
- Through fascinating historical anecdotes and philosophical insights, it keeps readers engaged and invested in the teachings of Stoicism.
Who should read How to Think Like a Roman Emperor?
- Amateur and advanced Stoics looking for a fresh perspective
- People curious about the life of Marcus Aurelius
- Anyone interested in how ancient philosophy mixes with modern psychology
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How to Think Like a Roman Emperor FAQs
What is the main message of How to Think Like a Roman Emperor?
The main message of How to Think Like a Roman Emperor is to apply Stoic philosophy in our daily lives for personal growth and resilience.
How long does it take to read How to Think Like a Roman Emperor?
The reading time for How to Think Like a Roman Emperor varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is How to Think Like a Roman Emperor a good book? Is it worth reading?
How to Think Like a Roman Emperor is a valuable read for anyone interested in Stoicism and improving their mindset. It offers practical insights and historical wisdom.
Who is the author of How to Think Like a Roman Emperor?
The author of How to Think Like a Roman Emperor is Donald Robertson.
What to read after How to Think Like a Roman Emperor?
If you're wondering what to read next after How to Think Like a Roman Emperor, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
- How to Be a Stoic by Massimo Pigliucci
- Blink by Malcolm Gladwell
- A Handbook for New Stoics by Massimo Pigliucci and Gregory Lopez
- The Republic by Plato
- That One Should Disdain Hardships by Musonius Rufus
- The Art of War by Sun Tzu
- Lives of the Stoics by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman
- The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday & Stephen Hanselman
- The Twelve Caesars by Suetonius